In the bottom of his locker, New Orleans Saints cornerback Keenan Lewis stashed away the football he intercepted late in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, a birthday gift for his mother.

What did she ask for as a present, anyway?

“An interception,” Lewis replied.

To that, Saints fans everywhere can only say, “Thanks, mom.” Not just for Lewis’ pick, which with 4˝ minutes left was frankly just a cosmetic touch on New Orleans’ 31-7 dismantling of the Cardinals, but for what it represents about this Saints team and this Saints defense.

This is a franchise that has built its success under Sean Payton with an offense that pulls virtually all of its power through Drew Brees’ Hall of Fame-worthy right arm.

Sunday’s game was another spectacular performance for No. 9, a 342-yard, three-touchdown passing performance that was abetted by a 7-yard touchdown scramble that made the black-and-gold faithful love him all the more.

But it’s always defense that is drawn to a fan base’s bosom more than anything else. Who was more beloved: Terry Bradshaw or the Pittsburgh Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defense?

This Saints defense has given the faithful a lot to be infatuated with. Through three games, it’s been the gift that keeps on taking away.